Packed with historic sites, stunning architecture and gorgeous scenery, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for things to do see and do in Bath.
A UNESCO World Heritage City, the city of Bath, named after its Roman spas, is steeped in history and culture. With its historic Roman baths, beautiful Georgian architecture, charming streets and thriving foodie scene, there’s plenty of things to see and do in Bath. Located only 1.5 hours from London, it is a great city to visit on a day trip or weekend break.
Read on to discover the top things to see and do in Bath:
1. Roman Baths
You can’t go to Bath without seeing the Roman Baths which made the city famous. Turn back the clock to 70AD and walk where the Romans walked all those centuries ago. See the ‘Great Bath’, the ‘Roman Temple’ and learn about its history at the various museum displays. Visitors can tour the baths and the museum but unfortunately cannot enter the water.
2. Thermae Bath Spa
Whilst you may not be allowed to take a dip in the Roman Baths, you can still enjoy the UK’s only natural hot spring thermal waters at the Thermae Bath Spa. Fed by natural geothermal mineral springs, the hot spring baths are one of the city’s most popular attractions. Besides the thermal baths, visitors can also indulge in one of the revitalising treatments, admire the view from the rooftop pool or visit the café.
3. Pulteney Bridge
One of the most photographed sights of Bath, the Grade I listed Pulteney Bridge is a must-see. The Palladian style bridge is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops across its full span on both sides. You can get the best view of the bridge from Parade Gardens.
4. Cruise along the River Avon
A scenic river cruise along the River Avon is one of the top things to do in Bath. Join an organised cruise and admire the beautiful surroundings and abundant wildlife along the river. Or go it alone and hire a narrowboat, pack a picnic and set your own course for the day. Make sure to stop at some of the lovely waterside pubs on the way!
5. Bath Abbey
A parish church and former Benedictine monastery, Bath Abbey is one of the largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the West Country. Founded in the 7th century, it was rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries. Now a Grade I listed building, take a tour of this church and admire the interior fan vaulting ceiling, the magnificent stained-glass windows and climb to the top of the Abbey’s Tower for a bird’s eye view of the city.
6. Theatre Royal
The Grade II listed building is a prime example of Georgian theatre architecture. Built in 1805, audiences have flocked to this theatre for over two hundred years. The theatre hosts big name musicals, operas, comedy shows and pantomimes throughout the year so catch a show whilst you are in town.
7. Jane Austen Centre
Visit the permanent exhibition dedicated to author Jane Austen and learn about her time living in Bath between 1801 and 1806. Located in a Georgian townhouse, the musem explores the effect the city had on her and her writing and offers a snapshot of what like would have been like in the Regency times. Once you’ve finished exploring, you can head upstairs to enjoy an afternoon tea in the Regency Tea Room.
8. Royal Crescent
See the beautiful façade of the Royal Crescent during your visit to Bath. The row of 30 terraced houses laid out in a sweeping semi-circle are among the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. Built between 1767 and 1774, the museum at No.1 Royal Crescent has been decorated and furnished as it might have been during that period.
9. Food and drink
After a long day sightseeing there’s nothing better than unwinding with some delicious food and drink. Renowned for its diverse restaurants and bars, the city of Bath has developed into a thriving foodie scene. From Michelin starred restaurants to welcoming gastropubs, cosy cafes and buzzing bars with live music, you will discover a wealth of places to eat and drink in Bath.
10. Explore nearby Stonehenge
Located only one hour away from Bath, there are many tours or daytrips which depart from Bath to the ancient circle of Stonehenge. One of the most famous sites in Britain, the standing stones, each around 13 feet high and seven feet wide, have been shrouded in mystery since their discovery. Whilst some believe it was a sacred burial site or healing place, others believe it is an astronomical or celestial clock. Regardless of how it got there and what it was used for, it’s definitely a spectacular sight to see.